UK/ENGLISH UTAH LIFE ELEVATED TRAVEL GUIDE

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1 UK/ENGLISH UTAH LIFE ELEVATED TRAVEL GUIDE

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3 TRAVEL GUIDE CONTENTS GETTING HERE 4 THIS IS THE PLACE 7 SALT LAKE CITY & THE WASATCH FRONT 8 DINING, SHOPPING & CULTURE 12 OUTDOOR RECREATION 14 THE MIGHTY 5 17 ARCHES NATIONAL PARK 18 BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK 20 CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK 22 CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK 23 ZION NATIONAL PARK 26 THE GREATEST SNOW ON EARTH 28 NORTHERN UTAH 31 HISTORY & HERITAGE 32 NATIONAL SITES & STATE PARKS 33 NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAYS 34 Balance Rock, Arches National Park Editor: Jennifer Logue Published by Phoenix International Publishing Publisher: Simon Todd simontodd@phoenixip.com UK Office +44 (0) angelaspencer@phoenixip.com Design: Studio Sales: Dana Brockway adventuremedia@cox.net On the cover: Capitol Reef National Park. Photo courtesy of Utah Office of Tourism. Additional photos courtesy of Utah Office of Tourism, Kane County Office of Tourism, Derek Smith and Shutterstock. Although every effort has been made to achieve accuracy, the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any mistakes or omissions. The publication may not be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form or by any means without the prior permission of the publishers. Phoenix International Publishing

4 Salt Lake City International Airport (SLC) serves as the main gateway for international visitors travelling to Utah. Located eight miles (12.8 km) from downtown Salt Lake City and about an hour from numerous world-class ski resorts, SLC offers nonstop arrivals and departures from nearly 90 cities, including Paris, London, Amsterdam and select cities in Canada and Mexico. Travellers heading to The Mighty Five national parks in Southern Utah may also want to consider flying into Las Vegas. The drive from McCarran International Airport (LAS) to St. George, Zion National Park and Kanab ranges from two to three hours. Vancouver To Calgary To Honolulu To Anchorage Seattle Reno Sacramento San Francisco Portland Eugene San Jose Redmond Medford Oakland Fresno Spokane Lewiston Pasco Elko Boise Sun Valley Twin Falls St. George Kalispell Great Falls Missoula Helena Butte Cedar City Las Vegas Burbank Los Angeles Ontario Long Beach Palm Santa Ana Springs San Diego Phoenix Bozeman Billings West Yellowstone Idaho Falls Cody Jackson Gillette Pocatello Casper Vernal SALT LAKE CITY Grand Denver Moab Colorado Springs Albuquerque Rapid City Fargo Des Moines Omaha Tulsa Oklahoma City Minneapolis Madison Kansas City St. Louis Detroit Chicago ORD Chicago MDW Indianapolis Memphis Cincinnati Nashville Atlanta Toronto Charlotte Newark Philadelphia Baltimore Washington DCA Raleigh New York JFK Boston To Amsterdam To London To Paris Tucson Dallas DFW Dallas DAL Austin New Orleans To Los Cabos San Antonio Houston To Cancun Orlando To Puerto Vallarta To Mexico City To Guadalajara Miami UTA- FrontRunner, Provo Station GETTING AROUND The Utah Transit Authority (UTA) serves the Wasatch Front with regular bus, light rail and commuter rail service. A 20-minute ride on the TRAX light rail transports travellers from the airport to downtown Salt Lake City, while the FrontRunner commuter rail connects the city with Ogden to the north and Provo to the south. UTA ski buses, meanwhile, serve all four Salt Lake City resorts along with Sundance, Park City and Powder Mountain. Getting around Utah by car is easy: Interstate 15 runs north to south, intersecting with Interstates 70, 80 and 84. Or venture off the interstate and enjoy spectacular views along one of Utah s official scenic byways (see page 34 for details). Utah is also a convenient launching point for visits to other parts of the United States. Visiting California or Chicago? Salt Lake City is served by Amtrak s California Zephyr, considered by many to be one of the most scenic train routes in America. Salt Lake City International Airport is also the closest international airport to Yellowstone National Park. A detailed itinerary of the Yellowstone Loop is available at visitutah.com. 4

5 CLIMATE CHART January February March April May June July August September October November December LOGAN SALT LAKE PARK CITY ST. GEORGE MOAB BLANDING 31/11 F 36/19 F 32/12 F 53/25 F 42/18 F 38/16 F -0.3/-12 C 2/-7 C 0/-11 C 12/-4 C 6/-8 C 3/-9 C 38/17 F 43/24 F 36/15 F 60/30 F 51/24 F 44/22 F 3/-8 C 6/-4 C 2/-9 C 16/-1 C 11/-4 C 7/-6 C 48/26 F 52/31 F 41/20 F 67/36 F F 52/27 F 9/-3 C 11/-0.6 C 5/-7 C 19/2 C 17/0.5 C 11/-3 C 59/33 F 62/38 F 53/28 F 77/43 F 72/41 F 62/34 F 15/0.6 C 17/3 C 11/-2 C 25/6 C 22/5 C 16/1 C 69/41 F 72/43 F 63/36 F 86/51 F 82/48 F 72/42 F 21/5 C 22/8 C 17/2 C 30/11 C 28/9 C 22/6 C 80/48 F 83/54 F 74/44 F 96/56 F 92/56 F 83/50 F 27/9 C 28/12 C 23/7 C 36/14 C 33/13 C 28/10 C 89/54 F 92/62 F 82/50 F 102/66 F 99/63 F 88/57 F 32/12 C 32/16 C 26/10 C 37/18 C 36/16 C 30/13 C 88/52 F 90/61 F 79/49 F 99/65 F 95/61 F 86/56 F 31/11 C 33/16 C 26/9 C 37/18 C 35/16 C 30/13 C 77/43 F 79/51 F 70/41 F 93/55 F 87/51 F 78/48 F 25/6 C 26/11 C 21/5 C 34/13 C 30/11 C 26/13 C 64/33 F 66/40 F 58/32 F 80/43 F 73/39 F 66/38 F 18/0.6 C 19/4 C 14/0 C 27/6 C 23/4 C 19/3 C 46/24 F 50/29 F 44/22 F 65/32 F 57/28 F 51/26 F 8/-4 C 10/-2 C 6/-6 C 18/-0.5 C 14/-2 C 11/-3 C 34/15 F 34/22 F 34/15 F 54/26 F 44/20 F 41/19 F 1/-9 C 1/-6 C 1/-9 C 12/-4 C 7/-7 C 5/-7 C American West Heritage Center DISTANCE CHART Arches National Park Bear Lake State Park Bryce Canyon National Park Capitol Reef National Park Canyonlands National Park Needles District Cedar Breaks National Monument Arches National Park Bear Lake State Park Bryce Canyon National Park Capitol Reef National Park Canyonlands National Park Needles District Cedar Breaks National Monument Dinosaur National Monument Escalante Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area Grand Canyon National Park South Rim Kanab Moab Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Park City Salt Lake St. George Yellowstone Zion KILOMETERS Salt Lake Dinosaur National Monument Escalante Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area Grand Canyon National Park South Rim Kanab Moab Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park Park City St. George Yellowstone Zion MILES UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE THEY CAME HERE FOR A REASON. The dinosaurs may have been prehistoric but they knew what they were doing. They found a scenic oasis of adventure and stayed so long it caught them off guard, and they re still here. Dinosaur National Monument is their final resting place. See what they saw and go beyond the bones to experience everything the area has to offer. EXPERIENCE THE Yellowstone National Park MAP WYOMING Rocky Mountain National Park AND BEYOND! Dinosaur National Monument UTAH COLORADO Arches National Park 5

6 SALT LAKE Your Gateway to Adventure. Naturally. Grand Teton National Park Yellowstone National Park Golden Spike Nat l Historic Site SALT LAKE T E Timpanogos Cave Nat l Monument Flaming Gorge Nat l Recreation Area Dinosaur Nat l Monument Arches National Park Bryce Canyon National Park Zion National Park Cedar Breaks Nat l Monument Grand Staircase Escalante Nat l Monument Glen Canyon Nat l Recreation Area Rainbow Bridge Nat l Monument Canyonlands Nat l Park Natural Bridges Nat l Monument Monument Valley Hovenweep Nat l Monument Yucca House Nat l Monument Mesa Verde Nat l Park Aztec Ruins Nat l Mon. Navajo Nat l Monument Grand Canyon National Park Begin your National Park Adventure at

7 WELCOME In 1847, Mormon leader Brigham Young crested a hill, gazed upon the expansive landscape of Utah s Salt Lake Valley and declared, This is the right place. Today, Utah is still the place. The place to spend the day on The Greatest Snow on Earth and the night at the symphony. The place to savour fresh, farm-to-table cuisine and the adrenaline rush of world-class mountain biking. The place to gallop on horseback in an authentic Western bison roundup and careen down the thundering cascades on a whitewater rafting adventure. The place to delve deep into ancient cultures and explore the spectacular terrain of The Mighty 5, Utah s five national parks. With a sophisticated urban lifestyle set against the backdrop of some of nature s most splendid scenery, Utah is the place to live Life Elevated and revel in all the state has to offer. Angels Landing, Zion National Park Craving the adventure of a lifetime? This is the place. 7

8 SALT LAKE CITY & THE WASATCH FRONT A cosmopolitan city surrounded by breathtaking mountain vistas, Salt Lake City is the urban heart of Utah s thriving Wasatch Front, and Utah s state capital. The city combines upscale amenities with easy access to outdoor adventure, making it the ideal launching point for any Utah holiday. UPSCALE URBAN Salt Lake City boasts a vibrant dining and nightlife scene, where modern American cuisine and inventive cocktails provide a perfect ending to a day of outdoor fun. Named one of America s 5 New Foodie Cities by Wine Enthusiast Magazine (2014), Salt Lake City serves up a diverse and distinctive menu of culinary options. The city is also known for award-winning breweries like Squatters, Uinta and Red Rock as well as distilleries such as Sugar House and Beehive. Visit hip downtown destinations like Whiskey Street, Copper Common, Under Current and "Modern Family" actor Ty Burrell s Bar-X and Beer Bar. 8

9 OUTDOOR ADVENTURE It s hard to find a cosmopolitan city more perfectly situated for outdoor fun. Salt Lake City is located just minutes away from hundreds of miles of hiking trails and less than an hour from 10 ski resorts. A few are as close as 30 minutes from downtown. Park City the only International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) Certified Gold Level mountain biking city in America and home to the Deer Valley and Park City mountain resorts is less than 45 minutes up the canyon. For more outdoor adventure, saddle up and take part in the annual bison roundup on Antelope Island Great Salt Lake s largest island and one of Utah s 43 incredible state parks or head to the Bonneville Salt Flats to view the famous World of Speed racing events or photograph the surreal terrain. Bonneville Salt Flats UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE Historic Temple Square at Christmas HERITAGE & CULTURE The centerpiece of Utah s capital city is historic Temple Square. View the square s impressive structures, which are home to the world headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the largest genealogical library of its kind in the world. Enjoy a free walking tour of the area available in 40 languages or attend a free concert by the world-renowned Mormon Tabernacle Choir. Salt Lake City is also home to numerous arts and cultural institutions. The Salt Lake Connect Pass offers admission to more than a dozen of the city s most popular attractions for one low price at visitsaltlake.com. 9

10 UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE THE WASATCH FRONT Salt Lake City is conveniently located midway along the Wasatch Front Utah s 100-mile-long (160 km) metropolitan corridor in Northern Utah. Made internationally famous by the 2002 Winter Olympics, the Wasatch Front is home to 10 ski resorts, dynamic cities and unlimited year-round outdoor adventure. Here is a snapshot of top cities and attractions along the Wasatch Front: Historic Ogden offers visitors a burgeoning downtown nightlife. Located at the northern end of the Wasatch Front, Ogden is the place to find great brews, farm-to-table cuisine, extensive outdoor recreation including a beautifully restored urban river and even ifly indoor skydiving. Fans of professional sports can catch a professional soccer game at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy, home of the Real Salt Lake soccer club. Also don t miss a visit to Vivint Smart Home Arena in Salt Lake City, where the Utah Jazz host the National Basketball Association home games. To appreciate exotic and native Utah ecosystems, visit the Living Planet Aquarium in Draper to encounter more than 450 species. Then continue south to Lehi to stroll among the gardens and visit the shops and museums at Thanksgiving Point. Provo and Orem, at the southern end of the front, offer easy access to Mount Timpanogos as well as Provo Canyon s fly-fishing, hiking and skiing. Historic Ogden Living Planet Aquarium Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy 10

11 Mount Timpanogos One Valley. Endless Possibilities. Discover Utah s Adventure Destination Antelope Island State Park Thanksgiving Point With three state parks, two world-class ski areas, a 10,000-year-old natural hot spring crater, blue ribbon fly fishing, endless hiking and biking trails, 90 holes of public golf and majestic mountain views, the Heber Valley is one of the most exciting places to recreate in Utah. Just 45 minutes from downtown Salt Lake City 475 North Main, Heber, UT Follow Heber Valley on: 11

12 City Creek Center DINING Utah is fast becoming known as a foodie s paradise. From charming bistros and awardwinning culinary hotspots to hip, downtown distilleries, Utah s dining and nightlife offers diverse and delectable options for every palate. Salt Lake City s The Copper Onion, for example, combines an eclectic décor with a creative yet hearty menu featuring innovative fare such as roasted wagyu bone marrow and walnut and kale pesto over fettuccine. Prefer a more intimate ambiance? Dine by the fire at Fresco Italian Café, relishing such signature dishes as spiced pear salad, mushroom and crescenza torta and veal bolognese. In Park City, patrons of Riverhorse on Main feast on hand-cut buffalo tartare, pork belly pierogis and Snake River Farms overnight pork shank. Travellers to Southern Utah s popular St. George region enjoy panoramic views of the St. George Valley while dining at the Cliffside Restaurant, where menu items like flatiron asado and chiliglazed salmon have earned it the title of Best New Restaurant in Southern Utah. SHOPPING Salt Lake City s newest shopping destination is City Creek Center. With more than 100 namebrand retailers and restaurants, a retractable glass roof, and a creek that meanders through the property, City Creek reflects Utah s distinctive combination of urban sophistication and natural beauty. Travel to Sandy to visit Utah s largest shopping mall. South Town Center features more than a million square feet of shopping and dining options as well as an indoor carousel. For a more intimate shopping experience, stroll down Park City s picturesque Main Street. Enjoy shopping in more than 100 stores and boutiques, then dine at one of 50 unique restaurants. Bargain shoppers looking for name brands can find an outlet mall as part of their metropolitan experience on the Wasatch Front at Traverse Mountain in Lehi, at the high elevation of Park City s Tanger Outlets, or near Zion National Park in St. George. When visiting the stunning landscape of Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument in Southern Utah, stop by Hell s Backbone Grill in Boulder. The Zagat-rated restaurant earns rave reviews for its fresh, local cuisine, much of it grown on the owners adjacent organic farm. 12

13 CULTURE Even if you visited for the unforgettable Utah landscapes, don t let the endless outdoor scenery fool you. Utah has a thriving arts and cultural community that boasts a year-round calendar of events to add high culture to your adventure. Salt Lake City in particular offers a full complement of arts and cultural offerings. Attend a performance by the Utah Symphony or the Utah Opera. Marvel at the grace and artistry of the dancers at Ballet West. Enjoy a summertime concert while picnicking at picturesque Red Butte Gardens. Or attend one of the city s many annual festivals, including the Utah Arts Festival in June, the International Jazz Festival in July or the Craft Lake City DIY Festival every August. Salt Lake City is also home to top-notch museums, including the Utah Museum of Fine Arts, the fascinating blend of science, technology and art at The Leonardo, the Utah Museum of Contemporary Art, and the visually stunning Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center. Classical theatre fans will want to visit Cedar City, home of the celebrated Utah Shakespeare Festival. Located on the campus of Southern Utah University, this Tony Award-winning professional theatre company presents plays from Shakespeare and other authors each June through October. Starting in 2016, the festival will be housed in the new Beverley Taylor Sorenson Center for the Arts. Park City, meanwhile, plays host each year to the annual Beethoven Festival and the Deer Valley Music Festival, which brings the Utah Symphony and Opera to the cool mountain air. Many travellers taking the scenic route from Salt Lake City to Yellowstone enjoy stopping in Logan for the Utah Festival Opera and Musical Theatre, a five-week summer festival with more than 100 events. Cedar Breaks National Monument Utah Festival Opera 13

14 This is the place to get outside and experience life in the new American West. With five national parks, 43 state parks, seven national monuments, two national recreation areas and The Greatest Snow on Earth, Utah is one big playground for travellers seeking year-round outdoor adventure. Cast a line. Hit the slopes. Rappel down the side of a sandstone canyon. Bike across miles of unforgettable terrain. Or simply stand back and admire the view. Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park Goblin Valley State Park

15 Watchman Trail, Zion National Park HIKING From family-friendly trails to more challenging climbs, Utah is made for hiking. The Mighty 5 national parks alone offer countless trails through the region s iconic red-rock landscape. Multiple national monuments, national recreation areas, national forests and state parks also blanket Southern Utah, providing ample hiking opportunities outside of The Mighty 5. For diverse alpine views, hike through miles of lush wilderness in the Uinta-Wasatch-Cache National Forest, or summit Mount Raymond to enjoy 360-degree views of Big Cottonwood Canyon, home to both Brighton and Solitude ski resorts. BIKING For serious mountain bikers, all trails lead to Utah. The slickrock trails of Moab are famous for their challenging climbs and descents and helped put Moab on the map. But Moab is just the beginning. Mountain biking enthusiasts travelling to Bryce Canyon and Zion should plan to visit nearby Thunder Mountain and Gooseberry Mesa. For a mountaintop biking adventure, head to Park City America s only IMBA-Certified Gold Level mountain biking city or travel the singletrack Wasatch Crest Trail near Salt Lake City and the many sections of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail in Salt Lake City and Ogden. WATER SPORTS Famous for its scenic desert vistas, Utah also ranks among the top 10 U.S. states in surface acres of boatable waters. The state s rivers, lakes and reservoirs offer world-class water recreation. Rent a houseboat and cruise majestic Lake Powell. Go fly-fishing in the Green River. Swim, sail and waterski the turquoise waters of Bear Lake. Or take a heartpounding whitewater rafting trip through Cataract Canyon down the Colorado River. UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE CANYONEERING It s hard to imagine a place more suited for canyoneering than Utah. From the deep canyons of The Mighty 5 to the desert slots of Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, the state is tailor-made for both serious canyoneers and guide-accompanied novices alike. It is said that Utah has the highest concentration of slot canyons in the world, which means explorers can never run out of incredible desert terrain. Canyoneering is a serious endeavor and often highly technical, but local guides and outfitters can lead you down a trail that s perfect for your level of adventure and many people will enjoy putting on some good hiking shoes and stepping into The Narrows of Zion National Park. WINTER SPORTS Utah becomes even more magical in winter, when the state is blanketed with some of the best powder in the West. Utah is a must for any winter sports enthusiast. Enjoy a peaceful snowshoe or cross-country skiing sojourn through Bryce Canyon National Park. Take a tubing trip down the world s longest tubing lanes at Soldier Hollow. Shoot across hundreds of miles of groomed snowmobile trails at the Logan Canyon Snowmobile Complex. Or visit Olympic Park and Ice Arena for ski jumping, bobsledding, ice skating and curling. 15

16 NOT UNCHARTED. JUST UNSPOILED. Centrally located to nearby Bryce canyon, zion national Park, and grand canyon North rim, kanab in southern utah is a land filled with a spectacular combination of world-famous landmarks and stunning areas that are still largely unexplored. start planning your adventure today, for tips,go to visitsouthernutah.com

17 Thor's Hammer, Bryce Canyon National Park Utah is blessed with natural beauty, and some of its most awe-inspiring scenery is found in The Mighty 5 the state s five national parks. With towering mountains, rushing rivers and scarlet sandstone cliffs blazing in the sunlight, The Mighty 5 offer a world of outdoor recreational opportunities and some of the most spectacular scenery on earth. Take a scenic drive through Capitol Reef. Hike through Canyonlands impressive rock formations. View the mountains and waterfalls of Zion. Tour the natural bowls and red rock hoodoos of Bryce Canyon. Or camp overnight in Arches Devils Garden Campground. Whatever path you take, it is sure to be filled with wonder. See the park overviews that follow, then explore in-depth articles and itineraries at VisitUtah.com. 17

18 Delicate Arch ARCHES NATIONAL PARK UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE Few sights surpass the beauty and brilliance of the sun rising over the orange sandstone arches that give this park its name. With more than 2,000 natural geological arches and countless pillars, plateaus and towers, Arches offers outdoor recreation in an almost otherworldly environment. Hike the trails to see such famous and colourfully named rock formations as Dark Angel, The Three Gossips, The Organ and Elephant Butte. Be sure to make time for the iconic Delicate Arch framing the majestic La Sal Mountains and the impossibly thin Landscape Arch at roughly 295 feet (90 m), it s the park s longest arch and a top-five span in the world. DON T MISS: Landscape Arch The Windows Delicate Arch Hike No trip to Arches would be complete without a visit to the park s most famous formation. The 2.5-hour moderately strenuous hike culminates at this iconic landmark. Windows Primitive Loop View three impressive arches on this family-friendly one-mile (1.6 km) hike. Take an Interpretive Tour Park guides and volunteers offer a variety of interpretive programs every day, spring through fall. Stop by the visitor centre for more information. TRAVEL TIPS: Where to stay: The laidback desert town of Moab is a great base for your Arches adventure, offering lots of options for lodging, dining and recreation. After exploring the park, enjoy local cuisine then relax and unwind at an area resort like Sorrel River Ranch and Spa or Red Cliffs Lodge. Ready for more? Rent a bike and hit the area s world-famous mountain biking trails. Best time: For truly spectacular views, visit Arches at sunrise and sunset when the park is less crowded and the sun s rays dance across the vermilion-coloured terrain. Climate: While Arches enjoys moderate temperatures in the spring and fall, summer temperatures can soar past 100 F (37 C). In winter, the park s icy trails are best navigated with the aid of poles and shoe spikes. Whenever you visit, be sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen on your outdoor adventures. 18

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20 BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE It s safe to say Bryce Canyon is unlike any other place on earth. Where else can visitors find forested plateaus interspersed with a striking desert landscape punctuated by thousands of crimson spires and pillars known as hoodoos? To experience the full effect of these hoodoos some of which tower 10 stories high descend from the rim down into the canyon. A convenient shuttle system transports visitors to many of the park s most scenic vantage points, or set out on a day hike on one of the canyon s popular trails. For a more rugged adventure, get a permit and set out on the Under-the-Rim Trail for a 23-mile journey (37 km) from Bryce Point to Rainbow Point. Prefer a more romantic stroll? The park offers guided moonlight hikes when the moon is full. Or see the canyon the way the first pioneers did: from the back of a horse on a wrangler-led Canyon Trail Ride. Natural Arch DON T MISS: Queen's Garden Navajo Trail Loop Descend 800 feet (244 m) from Sunset Point on this popular trail through the canyon s Wall Street and by the Silent City before making the return climb up the side of the amphitheatre. Night Sky Program Certified as a Dark Sky Park, Bryce Canyon is perfect for stargazing. Enjoy a ranger-led multimedia show, then view the stars through telescopes (check the visitor centre for dates and times). Fans of astronomy can see all of Utah s Dark Sky Parks at VisitUtah.com. Fairyland Loop Hike Follow this eight-mile trail (12.9 km) for a strenuous hike from Fairyland Point down into the brightly coloured canyons among the hoodoos, spires and labyrinths. TRAVEL TIPS: Where to stay: Nearby towns such as Bryce Canyon City, Panguitch and Tropic offer a range of accommodations. Enjoy panoramic canyon views at the Stone Canyon Inn or stay close to the rim at The Lodge at Bryce Canyon. Open April to November, the lodge is a National Historic Landmark and the only lodging located within the park. Best time: Visit the park at sunrise and sunset, when the sun s rays ignite the red rock landscape. The park s high elevation makes Bryce Canyon cooler than other parks, making summertime an especially popular time to visit. Climate: Bryce Canyon s temperatures typically peak in the low 80s F (29 C) in summer, when monsoon patterns can bring afternoon thunderstorms. From November to March, daytime temperatures peak in the 30s to 40s F (0 to 5 C), dipping below freezing at night. 20

21 BIRD WATCHING HIKING MOUNTAIN BIKING WILDLIFE CLIMBING CANYONEERING RED CANYON LAKE POWELL SCENIC HIGHWAY 89 SLOT CANYONS CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK BOULDER MOUNTAIN KODACHROME BASIN DIXIE NATIONAL FOREST ANASAZI STATE MUSEUM PETRIFIED FOREST SCENIC BYWAY

22 CANYONLANDS NATIONAL PARK UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE Utah s largest national park offers more than 500 square miles (1295 sq. km.) of aweinspiring pinnacles, spires, buttes and mesas that stretch as far as the eye can see. The Colorado and Green rivers divide Canyonlands into four districts Island in the Sky, the Needles, the Maze and the rivers themselves each with its own distinct character. Take a four-wheel drive tour along the White Rim Road and enjoy panoramic views from Island in the Sky, a massive mesa resting atop sandstone cliffs that tower 1,000 feet (305 m) above the surrounding landscape. View the pinnacles and spires of The Needles on a backcountry adventure. Take a leisurely flat water trip down the Green or Colorado rivers, or hold on tight for a heart-pounding whitewater ride through Cataract Canyon. Overlooking Island in the Sky DON T MISS: Mesa Arch Mesa Arch Enjoy an early-morning hike to view the sunrise over one of the most photographed landmarks in the American West. White Rim Trail This popular 100-mile (161 km) mountain biking trail through Canyonlands is best attempted while on a three- or four-day camping trip with a support vehicle following along. The Needles Tour the colourful Cedar Mesa Sandstone spires that give this region its name. Hike or take a four-wheel drive vehicle to see such features as Elephant Hill, Confluence Overlook and Tower Ruin. There are easy trails like Cave Springs and Slickrock and strenuous day hike or overnight (with permit) options. TRAVEL TIPS: Where to stay: Moab and Monticello are convenient launching points for trips to Canyonland s Needles and Island in the Sky districts. Needles Squaw Flat Campground is a great base camp for backcountry hikers (be sure to bring plenty of water). Best time: Spring and fall are popular times to visit Canyonlands, as the temperatures climb in the summer months. While the Island in the Sky district is the park s most-visited destination, visitors will find that most trailheads are rarely crowded. Climate: Like nearby Arches National Park, warm summer temperatures make it wise to visit the park in the cooler morning and evening hours. Be prepared for late summer s monsoon season, when afternoon thunderstorms can trigger flash floods. Check with visitor centre staff for current conditions and always carry in extra water to Canyonlands. 22

23 Gifford Homestead CAPITOL REEF NATIONAL PARK Capitol Reef takes its name from the white, dome-shaped peaks that reminded early pioneers of the U.S. Capitol building. With some of the most visually dazzling geological formations in the West, this park is the place to hike, backpack, camp and even road cycle amid the brilliantly coloured rock formations. The backbone of the park is the 100-milelong (161 km) Waterpocket Fold. View the towering reef s striped layers of white, pink and red sandstone, then embark on a short hike to Hickman Bridge or a scenic backway drive to Cathedral Valley, if conditions permit. Leave time to explore both Native American and pioneer culture: Examine Fremont Indian petroglyphs, then visit the historic Fruita settlement and Gifford Homestead, enjoying fresh fruit from the orchards that give the area its name. Cathedral Valley DON T MISS: Capitol Reef Scenic Drive Moenkopi Formation, Grand Wash and Cassidy Arch named for outlaw Butch Cassidy are just a few of the sights to see on this 8.2-mile (13.1 km) paved road through Capitol Reef s geological wonders. Fruita Orchard and Gifford Homestead Pick fruit in season and enjoy fresh-baked fruit pies at this historic homestead. Hiking in Capitol Reef Hickman Bridge Enjoy sweeping canyon views on this moderately strenuous hike to see this 133-foot long (40.5 m) natural bridge. TRAVEL TIPS: Where to stay: Cabins, campgrounds, motels and bed and breakfasts abound in the towns surrounding Capitol Reef. While Torrey is considered the gateway to the park, the nearby towns of Hanksville, Fremont and Loa also offer lodging options. Prefer to camp in the park? Capitol Reef campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Best time: Capitol Reef s visitor centre and campgrounds are open year-round. Hikes are best begun early in the day before the desert temperatures start to soar. Climate: Summer temperatures in the park s desert regions range in the 70 80s F (20 30s C), with nighttime dips down to the 40s F (5 C). From November to March, temperatures rarely surpass 50 F (10 C) during the day and freezing overnight, but the solitude and snowcapped vistas make for a memorable wintertime visit. UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE 23

24 Art / Painting ATV Riding Canyoneering Fishing Hiking Horseback Jeep Tours Mountain Biking Photography Rock Climbing Scenic Drives Wildlife Viewing Our secret is now yours! Reef.org Wayne County Office of Tourism

25 #THEREISAPLACE WHERE ARE THAN BOULDERS BIGGER B UILDINGS THE NARROWS in ZION NATIONAL PARK VisitZionCanyon.com

26 ZION NATIONAL PARK UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE With towering sandstone cliffs, lush wilderness, picturesque waterfalls and narrow slot canyons, Utah s first national park is the place to reconnect with nature. To get oriented, hop aboard the park s shuttle system the only motorized transportation allowed in the main canyon during the peak season which is always free of charge. From the comfort of the shuttle, view Weeping Rock, The Great White Throne, Angels Landing and other famous landmarks. Then set out on foot: View breathtaking waterfalls along the Emerald Pools trail, go on a guided canyoneering adventure through The Subway or wade into the Virgin River to hike The Narrows, where canyon walls soar to 1,000 feet (305 m). Spend the night under starry skies in one of Zion s three campgrounds, surrounded by natural splendour. DON T MISS: Virgin River, The Narrows Court of the Patriarchs The Narrows Wade into the Virgin River for this popular hike through the narrowest portion of Zion Canyon. Riverside Walk Prefer not to get your feet wet? Hike along the paved, wheelchair-accessible Riverside Walk. Angels Landing Enjoy spectacular views of Zion Canyon from this peak accessed by a strenuous 5-mile (8 km) round-trip hike along a steep, narrow ridge. Great White Throne view from Angels Landing Trail TRAVEL TIPS: Where to stay: Springdale is considered the primary gateway to Zion, with numerous lodging options also available in St. George, Virgin and Rockville. Camp in one of Zion s three campgrounds (reservations are recommended) or relax in style at the nearby Green Valley Spa or Red Mountain Resort. Best time: Visitors planning to hike The Narrows will enjoy warmer water temperatures in the spring and summer. Climate: From May to October, temperatures can reach up to 100 F (38 C), with evening highs dropping to the 70s F (21 C). Staying hydrated is a must during these months, especially on strenuous hikes. Spring, fall and winter offer cooler temperatures. 26

27 The World s Greatest Outdoor Museum

28 THE GREATEST SNOW ON EARTH There s no better place than Utah for a top-notch ski and snowboarding holiday. With first-class ski resorts, Olympic-calibre facilities and over 500 inches (12.7 m) of light, dry powder each year, Utah is a don t-miss destination for winter sports enthusiasts. Go for a 60-mile-per-hour ride (96 km/h) on the Comet bobsled at Utah Olympic Park. Take a figure skating lesson at the Utah Olympic Oval. Or experience world-class cross-country skiing at Soldier Hollow, the Nordic skiing venue for the 2002 Winter Olympics and home to the longest snow tubing lanes in America. Best of all, 10 of Utah s 14 ski resorts are located less than an hour from Salt Lake City International Airport, allowing travellers more time to hit the slopes and enjoy après ski fun. Or enjoy the scenery en route to Utah s four scenic destination resorts: Northern Utah s Cherry Peak and Beaver Mountain, or Southern Utah s Eagle Point and Brian Head. When it comes to choosing a Utah ski resort, there s no wrong answer. Discover some of Utah's top ski destinations on the opposite page, then view all resorts and ski planning tools at VisitUtah.com. 28

29 UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE SALT LAKE CITY America s Ski City offers easy access to numerous world-famous winter resort destinations. From Snowbird and Alta in Little Cottonwood Canyon to Brighton and Solitude in Big Cottonwood Canyon, Salt Lake-area resorts offer top-quality ski runs, on-mountain amenities and accommodations that range from rustic to luxurious. And with such close proximity to Salt Lake City, it s easy for visitors to spend a full day on the mountain and be back in the city for dinner, drinks and the opera that night. PARK CITY With its picturesque Historic Main Street and Olympic sports facilities, this internationally known ski town artfully combines small-town America with cosmopolitan amenities. Park City Mountain Resort and Deer Valley combine for more than 9,300 skiable acres (3,700 ha) and endless lodging, from luxury hotels to slope-side condos. There are additional hotels for all budgets throughout Park City and the nearby Heber Valley, all of which also offer easy access to Utah Olympic Park and Soldier Hollow s Nordic ski facilities. OGDEN This historic town is the gateway to some of the best slopes in Utah. The scenic Ogden Valley is home to such premier ski destinations as Powder Mountain, Nordic Valley and Snowbasin, site of the men s and women s downhill runs for the 2002 Olympics. SUNDANCE Situated at the foot of majestic Mount Timpanogos, Robert Redford s Sundance Resort offers more than 450 acres (182 ha) of expertly groomed slopes and 42 runs for both experts and novice skiers alike. 29

30 THE IDEAL MOUNTAIN VACATION DESTINATION FOR EVERY SEASON. In winter, you can experience two world-class ski resorts with our Two Resort International Pass. Year-round, our historic town is home to dozens of festivals and concerts, many outlet and brand name shops, award-winning restaurants, and a vibrant night life. Park City, the most accessible mountain destination, is located just 35 minutes from Salt Lake City International Airport. Contact our International department at Intl@VisitParkCity.com or VisitParkCity.com/Intl I ve spent years floating through Utah s powder, soaring down its steeps, carving across its corduroy. But when my daughter flew by me for the first time, yelping with joy in the clear mountain air, I really understood why they call it THE GREATEST SNOW ON EARTH I m Jill and this is my Greatest. FIND YOUR GREATEST AT SKIUTAH.COM Jill Layfield MOTHER OF TWO BACKCOUNTRY.COM CEO UTAH LOCAL

31 Rafting the Green River, Flaming Gorge Northern Utah is the place to find vibrant cities like Salt Lake City, Park City, Ogden and Provo. It s also the place to find much of The Greatest Snow on Earth, with world-class skiing and adventure sports. But great cities and great snow are just the beginning. Vernal Bear Lake Go backpacking in the Ashley National Forest, camping by alpine lakes at elevations up to 13,500 feet (4,100 m). The forest is also home to the spectacularly beautiful Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. Famous for its trout fishing, Flaming Gorge offers a host of recreational options from hiking and camping to waterskiing and powerboating on the emerald waters of the Green River, surrounded by towering crimson cliffs. The charming community of Vernal serves as a gateway to Ashley National Forest as well as Utah s Dinosaur Country, earning it the nickname of Dinosaurland. Home to the largest quarry of prehistoric Jurassic dinosaur bones, Vernal is located just minutes from Dinosaur National Monument. Visit the Dinosaur Quarry Exhibit Hall to view 1,500 dinosaur bones, then examine ancient Fremont petroglyphs before embarking on a nearby whitewater rafting adventure. For more outdoor action, go hiking and fishing in the Uinta Mountains. Swim, sail and water ski the brilliant blue waters of Bear Lake on the Utah border with the state of Idaho. Or take a 1.5-mile (2.4 km) hike up 1,000 feet (304 m) to explore Timpanogos Cave National Monument, just south of Salt Lake City. With stalactites, stalagmites, draperies and countless other geological formations, Timpanogos offers a one-of-akind experience that s worth the effort. 31

32 Hovenweep National Monument HISTORY & HERITAGE UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURE American Indian culture is infused throughout the Utah landscape. Explore an Ancestral Puebloan (Anasazi) village at Anasazi State Park. Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum in Blanding also features restored Ancestral Puebloan ruins as well as a large collection of Anasazi pottery. Hovenweep National Monument near Monticello encompasses six prehistoric villages that were once home to more than 2,500 Ancient Puebloans from 1200 to 1300 AD. When visiting the Needles District of Canyonlands National Park, make sure to stop at the nearby Newspaper Rock: View the hundreds of Native American petroglyphs carved into this state historical monument. Featuring a mix of animal, human and abstract images, Newspaper Rock features one of the largest and best preserved collections of ancient Native American petroglyphs. Native American dancers UTAH ON FILM If Utah s scenic terrain seems strangely familiar, chances are you ve seen it before. The state has served as the backdrop for some of Hollywood s most popular films. The iconic buttes of Monument Valley have played a starring role in such classic Westerns as "Stagecoach," "The Searchers," and "Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid." Other films featuring Utah s landscape include "Planet of the Apes," "Thelma and Louise," "Forrest Gump," "Pirates of the Caribbean: At World s End," and countless more. Golden Spike National Historic Site PIONEER HERITAGE Salt Lake City s This Is the Place Heritage Park offers a glimpse of life during Utah s pioneer days. Visit a historic village, take a ride on the train or saddle up for a Western trail ride. Or try your hand at prospecting by digging for gemstones and panning for gold at the park s interactive Treasure House exhibit. Cedar City is home to Frontier Homestead State Park. Tribal culture and pioneer history come together at this living-history museum that celebrates both Native American heritage and frontier life. Explore Paiute cultural exhibits, see what it was like to live in a pioneer mining village, or weave a rug on a century-old loom as you listen to the peals from Cedar City s original 1850s town bell. Visitors to Capitol Reef National Park can view the historic cabins, barns and one-room schoolhouse of the Fruita 1880 pioneer settlement. Railroad enthusiasts gravitate toward Brigham City. Golden Spike National Historic Site marks the spot where in 1869 the golden spike connected the Union and Central Pacific railways, creating America s first transcontinental railroad. 32

33 NATIONAL SITES & STATE PARKS Monument Valley When it comes to Utah s natural beauty and recreation, The Mighty 5 are just the beginning. With 43 state parks and numerous national monuments and recreation areas, Utah is the place to camp, fish, swim, hike, golf and more while surrounded by scenic splendour. Antelope Island NATIONAL SITES AND MONUMENTS Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park Lake Powell From the towering canyons and emerald waters of Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area to stepping back in time to the Ancestral Puebloan period at Hovenweep National Monument, Utah s national sites live up to their reputation for breathtaking beauty. View the iconic landscape of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park. Go boating amid the magnificent backdrop of Lake Powell/Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, then visit nearby Rainbow Bridge National Monument to view one of the world s largest natural bridges. For more geological wonders, hike the trails at Natural Bridges National Monument, or camp beneath the stars surrounded by the lush green forests and multicoloured limestone amphitheatre of Cedar Breaks National Monument. STATE PARKS Dazzling desert landscapes, majestic mountain vistas and brilliant blue waters await visitors to Utah s state parks, several of which are located within a short drive of The Mighty 5. And with nearly four dozen parks from which to choose, there s a Utah state park that s sure to suit virtually every traveller s tastes. Watch the sun rise while mountain biking over the slickrock domes and trails of Dead Horse Point State Park, home to views that rival the famed Grand Canyon. Embark on a familyfriendly canyoneering adventure amid the otherworldly sandstone hoodoos and slots of Goblin Valley State Park. Wiggle your toes in the sands of Coral Pink Sand Dunes State Park a popular destination with ATV riders. Or go hiking and rock climbing at Snow Canyon State Park, which mixes Zion National Park s red rock geology with the Mojave Desert, and is only 20 minutes from the popular St. George metropolitan area. Crave water recreation? Utah is the place. Go water skiing and wakeboarding in the waters of Deer Creek State Park. Cast a line for bass and rainbow trout at Quail Creek and Sand Hollow state parks, where red rock landscapes surround sandy beaches and warm water perfect for fishing and boating. Try stand-up paddle boarding on the turquoise waters of the Caribbean of the Rockies, also known as Bear Lake State Park. Or drop your line at Gunlock State Park before enjoying a scenic drive to view the northernmost Joshua trees in the United States. UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE 33

34 Frontier Homestead State Park SCENIC BYWAY 12: Utah s first All-American Road ventures through the heart of the state, passing numerous archaeological and cultural attractions and accessing two national parks, Grand Staircase Escalante National Monument and several state parks. Admire the crimson-coloured rock formations of Red Canyon as part of 124 miles (200 km) of otherworldly canyons, valleys and plateaus. DINOSAUR DIAMOND PREHISTORIC NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY: Uncover authentic dinosaur tracks and big-time museums in small towns along this byway, then stop at the Dinosaur National Monument visitor centre and other museums to view prehistoric fossils. LOGAN CANYON NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY: Located near Utah s northern border, this scenic route travels along the Logan River to picturesque Bear Lake. Jump in the car and experience the splendour of Utah along these roads that are so scenic they ve been designated as National Scenic Byways and All-American Roads. Scenic Byway 12 Arch, Red Canyon FLAMING GORGE-UINTAS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY: View wildlife in its natural habitat as you journey along this byway as it wends its way over the Uinta Mountains, through Ashley National Forest and Flaming Gorge National Recreation Area. TRAIL OF THE ANCIENTS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY: Hovenweep National Monument, Natural Bridges National Monument and the iconic rock formations of Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park are just a few of the highlights on this trail through Southeastern Utah. NEBO LOOP NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY: Enjoy sweeping views of 11,800-foot (3,597 m) Mt. Nebo as you drive from Payson to Nephi. Admire the views of the Utah Valley, Wasatch Mountains and the red rock formations of the Devil s Kitchen. THE ENERGY LOOP HUNTINGTON/ ECCLES CANYONS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY: View historic mining towns and coalmining operations as you travel through the Manti-La Sal National Forest at elevations of up to 11,500 feet (3,505 m). Bear River Migratory Bird Refuge UTAH S PATCHWORK PARKWAY SCENIC BYWAY 143: Utah s Patchwork Parkway, so named for an historical pioneer journey through the snowy pass to save a settlement, travels through the Dixie National Forest from Panguitch to Parowan, cresting the 9,500-foot (2,896 m) pass at Brian Head. Utah boasts 19 state scenic byways in addition to the national scenic byways listed here. For more information on these picturesque drives, visit 34

35 225 miles to Boise Golden Spike Ntl Historic Site miles to Yellowstone miles to Grand Teton Bear Lake 89 LOGAN GARDEN CITY RANDOLPH BRIGHAM CITY OGDEN 39 EVANSTON 400 miles to Reno Great Salt Lake WYOMING Flaming Gorge Reservoir WENDOVER 80 TOOELE 215 FARMINGTON SALT LAKE CITY PARK CITY HEBER CITY KAMAS Flaming Gorge Ntl Rec Area 191 Dinosaur Ntl Monument VERNAL 36 Utah Lake Timpanogos Cave Ntl Monument PROVO miles to Denver DUCHESNE NEVADA 12 miles to Great Basin FILLMORE RICHFIELD MANTI 6 10 CASTLE DALE PRICE 70 GREEN 70 RIVER Green River Arches National Park 128 MOAB COLORADO 30 miles to Grand Junction UTAH TRAVEL GUIDE 15 Capitol Reef National Park BEAVER TORREY 95 Canyonlands National Park ST. GEORGE CEDAR CITY PAROWAN Cedar Breaks Ntl Monument Zion National Park 89 SPRINGDALE KANAB 89 PANGUITCH 12 BRYCE CANYON CITY 89 Bryce Canyon National Park ESCALANTE 12 Grand Staircase Escalante Lake Powell 276 Glen Canyon Ntl Rec Area Rainbow Bridge Ntl Monument Monument Valley Colorado River Natural Bridges Ntl Monument BLUFF MEXICAN HAT MONTICELLO BLANDING Hovenweep Ntl Monument Four Corners Area 55 miles to Mesa Verde 110 miles to Las Vegas 180 miles to Grand Canyon ARIZONA National Forest National Monument NORTHERN UTAH Bear Lake Box Elder County Cache Valley Daggett County Davis County Dinosaur Land Duchesne County Heber Valley Ogden CENTRAL UTAH Park City Salt Lake City Tooele County Utah Valley Beaver County Capitol Reef Country Castle Country Emery County Juab County Millard County SOUTHERN UTAH Sanpete County Sevier County Moab San Juan County Bryce Canyon Country Cedar City Kane County Piute County St George

36 Capitol Reef National Park